Jack Miller and Alex Rins have high hopes for Yamaha's new V4 MotoGP bike, but is it a game-changer? The duo believes the prototype has untapped potential, especially as Yamaha ditches its inline-four motor for the 2026 season.
The V4-powered Yamaha M1 turned heads at the Valencia test, with Fabio Quartararo setting impressive lap times, only half a second behind the leader. However, Quartararo remained cautious, while Miller and Rins, Yamaha's stablemates, were more optimistic about the bike's future.
Miller, a Pramac rider, acknowledged the V4's potential, despite the bike being a work in progress. He noted that the engine's performance was promising, but the electronics required fine-tuning. The bike's traction control was decent, but adjustments were needed to optimize the engine maps and improve the bike's responsiveness.
Rins agreed, praising the V4's improved braking performance compared to the inline-four. He explained that the bike's handling was better, allowing for more efficient use of both tires during braking. However, he identified a lack of traction as an area for improvement.
The current M1's strong point is its stable front end, which aids Yamaha riders in carrying more speed into corners. Miller and Quartararo agree that the V4 needs to match this performance. Miller believes that with the right direction, the front-end issues can be easily resolved.
But here's where it gets interesting: Miller describes the V4 as having a unique character, with a sound reminiscent of Honda/KTM and a weight feel similar to Ducati. This blend of traits could be the key to Yamaha's success in the upcoming season.
So, will Yamaha's V4 bike live up to the hype? Only time will tell. But with experienced riders like Miller and Rins providing valuable feedback, Yamaha might just have a winning formula on their hands. And this is the part most people miss—the fine line between a good bike and a championship-winning machine lies in the details. How Yamaha addresses the front-end and traction issues will be crucial to their success in 2026.
